Hamsilos Bay, often marketed as Turkey's only fjord, is a stunning natural inlet near Sinop, characterized by its deep green waters and surrounding forests. While not a true glacial fjord like those in Norway, its unique geological formation, shaped by a river, creates a picturesque and tranquil landscape. Historically, it's also noted as a place where Ottoman ships, including the Hamidiye, sought refuge during conflicts, adding a layer of historical intrigue to its natural beauty.
Visitors consistently highlight the bay's breathtaking beauty and peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for those looking to connect with nature. Many reviewers recommend it for picnics, with ample green areas and designated spots. The area is also popular for light walking and enjoying the fresh air. Some adventurous visitors mention swimming in the cool, clean waters, though they advise caution due to potentially strong currents. The combination of sea and forest creates a refreshing environment, and some even report picking wild blackberries and bay leaves.
To make the most of your visit, bring your own food and drinks, as facilities are limited; several reviewers emphasize the lack of places to sit, eat, or drink. A visit of 1-2 hours is generally sufficient to enjoy the views and take a short walk, though you could easily spend half a day if picnicking or hiking. The best time to visit is on a sunny day to fully appreciate the vibrant colors, but even a light rainy day can offer a uniquely atmospheric experience. Be prepared for an entrance fee, which varies but was recently reported as 25-50 TL (as of May 2024), with separate fees for toilets.
Hamsilos Bay is located approximately 10-11 km from Sinop city center. While driving is the most common way to reach it, with clear signposts along the coast, visitors also mention that it's accessible via dolmuş (shared minibus) from the town center. The road leading to the bay passes several shady picnic areas and smaller coves. Parking is generally easy near the main viewpoint. Drive carefully, as some roads can be winding.
A recurring complaint among visitors is the issue of litter, particularly in picnic areas and along the roadsides. Many express disappointment at the amount of trash left behind by previous visitors, which detracts from the natural beauty. To mitigate this, visitors are strongly urged to carry out all their rubbish and dispose of it properly. Additionally, while the bay is beautiful, some Nordic visitors note that it doesn't resemble the dramatic fjords of their home countries, so manage expectations if you're anticipating a similar geological spectacle.
